30 Day Overland Africa Tour: Nairobi to Johannesburg (Lodge Safari)
Quick Itinerary Overview:
This epic Overland Africa Tour travels from Nairobi to Johannesburg (Kenya to South Africa) over the course of one month. Along the way, you’ll explore Tanzania and Zanzibar Island, Malawi, Zambia, Victoria Falls in Zambia & Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Highlights include the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Stone Town and Beach Resort on Zanzibar Island, Lake Malawi, and Zambia’s popular South Luangwa National Park. Visit Victoria Falls before heading into Botswana to enjoy Chobe National Park by river, surreal Makgadigadi Pans in the Kalahari Desert, and the magnificent Okavango Delta from Maun to Khwai River Conservation Area & Moremi National Park. This action-packed lodge safari is filled with 4×4 game drives, bush walks, mokoro and boat trips, beach time, cultural experiences, and optional activities galore.
Itinerary for this Tour
Day 1: Nairobi to Arusha – Kenya to Tanzania
Our epic Overland Africa Tour departs from Nairobi, Kenya, driving south through rural Kenya. As we near the border, the scenery changes, offering views of the rolling hills of the Eastern Rift Mountains. After completing border formalities, we may be lucky enough to glimpse Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. Our destination is Arusha, located at the base of Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak. From Arusha, we will embark on a three-night Ngorongoro & Serengeti safari trip in 4×4 safari vehicles.
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2 & 3: Arusha to Serengeti National Park – Tanzania
Today, we drive through the scenic East African Rift Valley to Serengeti National Park. On the way, enjoy a game drive as we head towards our tented safari camp in the Seronera area, located in the heart of Serengeti National Park. The next two days will be filled with game viewing, and you’ll have the chance to spot the Big 5, including lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros.
- Included Activity: 4×4 Safari Game Drives in Serengeti National Park
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2
Day 4: Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater & Karatu – Tanzania
Start the day early with another exciting 4×4 game drive through the Serengeti plains. We then head to the Ngorongoro Crater, a collapsed ancient volcano that forms a natural amphitheatre filled with wildlife. Spend the day exploring this stunning crater before heading to the town of Karatu for the night.
- Included Activity: 4×4 Safari Game Drives in Ngorongoro Crater
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Karatu to Arusha – Tanzania
On Day 5, we return to Arusha via the Great Rift Valley, stopping in the village of Mto wa Mbu. This cultural melting pot offers a vibrant market with a variety of goods. Take some time to shop for souvenirs or immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Included Activity: Mto wa Mbu Market Visit
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Arusha to Bagamoyo – Tanzania
Today, we head from the cool highlands of Tanzania to the humid Indian Ocean coastline, traveling to Bagamoyo. This historical town was once a major port for the ivory and slave trade. Explore the mix of German colonial, Swahili, Arabic, and Christian influences before spending the night at a comfortable lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 & 8: Zanzibar Island Beach Resort – Tanzania
After an early departure from Bagamoyo, we catch the ferry to Stone Town on Zanzibar Island. After arriving, head to our beach resort on the island’s east coast for some relaxing beach time. Day 8 is free to explore Zanzibar, known for its pristine beaches and optional activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and village tours.
- Included Activity: Zanzibar Island Trip (including ferry)
- Optional Activities: Dhow Sailing Trips, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Turtle Sanctuary Visits, Jozani Forest, and more.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner x2
Day 9: Stone Town, Zanzibar Island – Tanzania
Return to Stone Town for a walking tour through the narrow streets. Visit a spice plantation and discover Zanzibar’s rich history as the “Spice Island.” Afterward, explore the fascinating architecture and history of Stone Town, including a visit to the birthplace of Freddy Mercury.
- Included Activity: Spice Tour, Stone Town Walking Tour
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Stone Town to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Stone Town before heading back to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s bustling largest city. Spend the afternoon exploring Dar’s rich cultural diversity, cuisine, and arts scene.
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 11 & 12: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi – Tanzania
Board our overland truck as we leave the East Africa coastline behind and head inland to Mikumi, situated on the doorstep of Mikumi National Park. This park is one of Tanzania’s largest wildlife areas and home to a variety of animals, including lion, zebra, wildebeest, impala, buffalo, and elephant. Over 400 bird species also call this park home. We will stay for two nights at a comfortable safari camp on the park’s edge, where you can relax by the pool or opt for exciting activities like game drives in Mikumi National Park or cultural tours.
- Optional Activity: Game Drive in Mikumi National Park, Cultural Tours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (2 Days)
Day 13: Mikumi National Park to Iringa – Tanzania
On Day 13, we journey inland to Iringa, a historic town on a cliff overlooking the Ruaha River Valley. On the way, stop at Baobab Valley to admire the massive, ancient baobab trees that dot the landscape. In Iringa, discover colonial German architecture and visit a local memorial to soldiers of the world wars. Overnight in this scenic town in southern Tanzania.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Iringa to Mbeya – Tanzania
Today, we venture south through the rolling hills and tea plantations of the Southern Tanzania Highlands. Our destination is the Mbeya region, a key coffee-growing area. Visit a local coffee plantation, where you can sample freshly harvested beans and learn about coffee production. We will stay at a scenic lodge nestled in the Mbeya mountains.
- Included Activity: Coffee Plantation Visit
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Northern Lake Malawi – Malawi
Leaving Tanzania’s highlands, we drive into the Great Rift Valley and cross into Malawi, “the warm heart of Africa.” Our destination is Lake Malawi, known as “the Lake of Stars” due to the fishing boats’ twinkling lights at night. Visit a local village, where you’ll enjoy a walking tour and get to know the Malawian way of life. We’ll overnight at a lakeside lodge in Chitimba, located on the northern shores of the lake.
- Included Activities: Village Walking Tour
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16 & 17: Lake Malawi – Malawi
On Day 16, continue exploring Lake Malawi’s shoreline and stay at a lodge on the central part of the lake at Ngala Beach. Relax with a sunset walk along the beach or swim in the clear waters. Day 17 is a free day to enjoy the lake’s beauty. Popular optional activities include kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking in the nearby forest reserve. Take a motorboat ride, do some bird watching, or explore local fishing villages along the shoreline.
- Optional Activities: Snorkeling, Horse Riding, Hiking, Volunteering, Kayaking, and More
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (2 Days)
Day 18: Lake Malawi to South Luangwa Valley – Zambia
On Day 18, we leave Lake Malawi behind and head into Zambia. After crossing the border, we make a stop in Chipata before continuing to our Safari Camp near the Luangwa River, on the edge of South Luangwa National Park. Enjoy sundowners at the lodge and keep an eye out for hippos and other wildlife as you take in the stunning sunset.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 19: South Luangwa National Park – Zambia
Day 19 is dedicated to exploring South Luangwa National Park, a wildlife haven. You can choose to join a morning walking safari or take an optional game drive in the park. South Luangwa is famous for its wildlife, including buffalos, leopards, giraffes, and hippos. In the afternoon, enjoy a sunset game drive followed by a thrilling nocturnal safari in search of leopards and other night-time creatures.
- Included Activity: Sunset Game Drive in South Luangwa National Park
- Optional Activities: Morning Game Drive or Game Walk
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 20: South Luangwa to Petauke – Zambia
We leave the park and make our way to Petauke, stopping along the way to visit Mulberry Mongoose, a jewelry business that turns snare traps into beautiful handmade pieces. Afterward, continue to Petauke, where we will overnight.
- Included Activity: Mulberry Mongoose Visit
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 21: Petauke to Lusaka – Zambia
Continue along Zambia’s Great East Road, crossing the iconic Luangwa River and stopping at Luangwa Market for a taste of local culture. We will overnight just outside Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, at a Safari Camp surrounded by natural bush.
- Included Activity: Luangwa Market Stop
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 22: Livingstone (Victoria Falls) – Zambia
On Day 22, we drive to Livingstone, Zambia’s gateway to Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls. Take a walk through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for stunning views of the falls. The next two days offer various adrenaline-pumping activities, including bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and scenic helicopter flights. Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and a boma dinner experience. You can also swim in the Devil’s Pool if visiting in the dry season.
- Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit, Bungee Jumping, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting, Zambezi Cruises, Gorge Swing, Boma Dinner Experience, Zambezi Sunset Cruise
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 23: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe
Tonight, we stay in a chalet on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls. A transfer from Livingstone to Victoria Falls is included in your tour price. You can choose between a morning transfer (08:00 am) or afternoon transfer (16:00 pm), depending on your plans for the day. Please note that border formalities are required to cross over.
The day is free for relaxation or more adrenaline activities. The Zimbabwean side offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Victoria Falls. Visit the main viewpoints, such as the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Falls Viewpoint, for sweeping vistas of the waterfall and its dramatic spray.
Explore the area with a guided walking tour, visit nearby villages, enjoy a traditional dance performance, or shop for souvenirs at local markets. You can also experience a delightful high tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel or unwind at the lodge swimming pool.
- Optional Activities: Victoria Falls Visit, Bungee Jumping, Helicopter Flights, White Water Rafting, Zambezi Cruises, Gorge Swing, Boma Dinner Experience, Zambezi Sunset Cruise, and more.
Meals: No Meals
Day 24: Victoria Falls to Kasane – Botswana
On Day 24, we enjoy the morning at the magnificent Victoria Falls. This is your last chance to try thrilling activities and explore the historic town. After lunch, we leave Zimbabwe behind and cross into Botswana, heading to the town of Kasane. In the late afternoon, we arrive at our safari camp, just a few kilometers from Chobe National Park.
Tonight’s camp overlooks the Chobe River and surrounding bush, featuring a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool. Relax and take a swim in the pool before we embark on a stunning sunset boat cruise along the Chobe River. The boat cruise offers incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, including hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, antelope, and the large herds of elephants the region is famous for.
- Included Activity: Chobe River boat cruise
- Optional Activities: Victoria Falls adventure activities
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 25: Kasane to Nata (Makgadigadi Pans) – Botswana
We depart from the rivers of Kasane and head into the arid Kalahari Desert. Our destination is near Nata Pan, a unique salt pan in the Makgadigadi Pans. These pans are the remnants of a vast lake that once covered the area. Our lodge for the night features a waterhole, where free-roaming elephants often visit to drink in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 26: Nata to Maun & Khwai Conservation Area (Okavango Delta) – Botswana
On Day 26, we continue west through the Kalahari Desert towards Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Upon arrival, you can take an optional scenic flight over the Delta (time and weather permitting). The Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, is a miraculous oasis in the Kalahari Desert. The flight offers a stunning aerial view of this incredible landscape.
Next, we leave our overland vehicle behind and are transported in smaller 4×4 safari vehicles to the Khwai River Conservation Area, located on the northeastern side of the Delta. You’ll need to pack smaller bags for this two-night excursion, where we will stay in safari tents at a tented camp on the floodplains of the Khwai River region.
Later in the afternoon, we venture to the mokoro station for a sunset boat ride in traditional dugout canoes known as mokoros. This unique mode of transport allows us to get up close to wildlife and explore the narrow channels and lagoons of the Delta. We will enjoy a nature walk on one of the Delta islands, learning about life in this fascinating ecosystem.
Included Activity: Stop at Makgadigadi Pans viewpoint, Sunset Mokoro trip
- Optional Activity: Scenic Okavango Delta Flight (time and weather permitting), Tips for Delta Polers
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 27: Moremi National Park (Okavango Delta) – Botswana
Today, our Africa Overland Tour is devoted to exploring the Okavango Delta in our 4×4 Safari vehicles. We venture into Moremi Game Reserve, covering 5,000 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, including waterways, lagoons, grasslands, and forests. The park is home to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), and endangered species like cheetahs and African wild dogs.
Moremi National Park offers excellent opportunities for game viewing, particularly during the dry season when wildlife congregates near the water. The park is also home to over 500 bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.
- Included Activity: Full Day Moremi Game Drive
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 28: Khwai River Area to Maun – Botswana
We wake up early to bid farewell to the wildlife-rich Khwai River Area and head back to Maun. Keep an eye out for any last sightings of wildlife as we make our way back. We will overnight in Maun, where you can relax and unwind. If you missed the scenic flight earlier, you can take this opportunity to experience the stunning aerial view of the Okavango Delta.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 29: Maun to Palapye – Botswana
On Day 29, we journey south along the Trans-Kalahari highway to Palapye, our final overnight stop. Watch out for wildlife as we pass through the unfenced natural areas of Botswana.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 30: Palapye to Johannesburg – South Africa
On the last day of our Africa Overland Tour, we head southeast through Botswana and into South Africa. We travel through the North-West Province before reaching Johannesburg, the economic heart of southern Africa.
The tour concludes in Johannesburg, where you can explore the vibrant city. Most groups choose to celebrate their African adventure with a farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Overland Africa Tour Notes:
We recommend booking your incoming and onward flights at least one day before and after the tour to allow for any delays. It is advisable to arrive a day before departure and fly out the day after the tour ends.
For more details on the Africa Overland Tour, contact Adventure In The Wild Safaris.